ConocoPhillips
Anti-retention agent in steam-solvent oil recovery

Abstract:

The present invention relates to a method for reducing solvent retention in ES-SAGD process so as to increase process economics wherein an anti-retention agent is injected into the reservoir to decrease solvent retention in the reservoir. The anti-retention agent can be made pre-injection or can form in situ, and comprises an agent in which the solvent is readily soluble, such that the solvent partitions into the foam, colloidal dispersion, or gel, and out of the condensed water or steam, and away from the reservoir rock.